WASHINGTON STATE — A child has died amid a measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico, marking the first measles-related death in the U.S. in a decade, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In response, health officials in Washington state are urging residents to stay vigilant and ensure vaccinations are up to date as concerns grow over the potential spread of the disease.
Dr. James Lewis, a health officer with the Snohomish County Health Department, stated, “We have not seen an uptick yet in Washington, but it’s certainly possible that we could end up seeing an increase in cases, just as some places in the country have.”
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) reported six confirmed measles cases in 2024, with none reported so far this year. However, Dr. Lewis noted that there have already been two confirmed measles exposures in the state in 2025.
"None of those exposures resulted in illness, likely due to prior immunity," he said. "A person who is fully vaccinated against measles receives two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing the disease."
Parents React to Vaccination Concerns
Parents in the area are voicing their thoughts on the importance of vaccination. David Schoen, a local parent, emphasized the benefits of immunization: “It’s a low-risk, high-reward situation. Keeping your kids’ eyesight and overall health protected is worth it.”
However, some parents remain skeptical. Christopher J. Zarati expressed his concerns about vaccine effectiveness: “Vaccines aren’t 100%. If something happens, there’s not much I can do about it. Unfortunately, that’s just how it is.”
Vaccination Rates and Public Health Efforts
According to the CDC, an estimated 91.3% of children in Washington were vaccinated for the 2023-2024 school year. However, MMR vaccination rates declined during the COVID-19 pandemic and have yet to recover fully.
The DOH reports that in 2023, only about 75% of children aged 19-35 months in Washington were up to date on their MMR vaccinations. Data from Public Health – Seattle & King County estimates that 87% of 2-year-olds in King County have received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.
Health officials stress the importance of timely vaccinations, as young children face the highest risk of severe complications from measles. While 72% of 4-6-year-olds in King County have received both recommended MMR doses, experts encourage parents to ensure their children receive the second dose as soon as they are eligible, rather than waiting until school enrollment.
Officials continue to monitor for potential outbreaks and emphasize that vaccination remains the best defense. “It’s never too late to get vaccinated,” they remind the public.
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